Jarvis Jenkins, DT, Clemson

Jarvis Jenkins was a pretty highly regarded recruit coming out of high school, but he only saw limited action as a true freshman in 2007. However, when he was on the field he made a big impact. That success as a freshman led to bigger things in 2008. Forced to play a bigger role due to injuries, Jenkins did not disappoint. He totaled 36 tackles, 10.0 tackles-for-loss and 2.0 sacks.

By 2009 Jenkins was certainly ready to emerge as the star of the Clemson front four. The 6-4, 310 pound defensive tackle had already proven to be a solid run stuffer who can also cause havoc in the backfield. Jenkins had a superb regular season as a junior and totaled 66 tackles, 11.0 tackles-for-loss and one sack. He has consistently gotten into the backfield and has emerged as a great run stuffer.

Jenkins has proven to NFL scouts what he can do on the field, but he still has not gotten much national attention for his efforts. He is not putting up eye popping numbers so far in the 2010 campaign and it was certainly a wise idea for him to return for his senior season. Jenkins should be one of the top ten defensive tackles in this class, but his stock could rise quickly once he gets to show his stuff at the NFL Combine.

3/22 Update: Jenkins had a decent NFL combine, but failed to separate himself from the pack. His lack of quickness was apparent and he has trouble creating much of a pass rush against a decent offensive line. Scouts like his ability to stuff the run and that could be enough to make him a late second round draft pick, but do not be surprised if he slips into the middle of the third round.